Air Force scandal prompts changes at training base

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The U.S. Air Force is changing how it selects those responsible for training recruits after a sex scandal in which dozens of female recruits said they were improperly approached, sexually harassed or raped.

A report released today said 23 instructors allegedly engaged in inappropriate or coercive sexual relationships with 48 alleged victims at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Five people have been convicted in court martials on charges ranging from adultery to rape. Another received administrative punishment. Additional instructors still face criminal charges.

Maj. Gen. Margaret Woodward said the investigation found that bad instructors took advantage of a weak oversight system and officers did not adequately supervise them.

The commander in charge of training said he would add more and better officers to training units.